Where I ride it can get rocky. I have had to straighten the shift lever a couple of times. Is checking this out a job for a mechanically inclined person who has never opened a side case before or not recommended?

 

Well, I've never been in there so cannot answer your last question. I have seen threads on shift problems, and some of that history may help answer your question. Maybe try searching this forum for "shift star" and read some of the earlier threads. Based on what I've seen, a mechanically inclined person could certainly remove the cover and start having a look around and compare to the photos and write-ups. I don't think you're at the point of "splitting the case" open yet.

 

Thanks for the help from all you guys. I think this one is best left to my local bike mechanic. I'll stick to external and upper end stuff. Trannies scare me.

 

It's not all that difficult to check to see if it is a sheared roller. You don't actually get into the gearbox, just inside one of the covers.

What is being talked about is the roller(s), p/n 610A0408, going into the change drum, p/n 13091-1856

https://www.kawasakiepc.com/SystemSe...TOKEN=24150804

Go to #30, "GEAR CHANGE DRUM/SHIFT FORK(S)"

Ride on
Brewster

 

I had a shifting problem two weeks ago when I changed my bars. It was very simple and was easily fixed by adjusting the clutch cable.

 

Just to be absolutely clear: when you say it's in neutral, is the neutral indicator light on? If the light it on, is it constantly on or does it flicker off as you try to shift?

For a mechanically inclinded person, it is not difficult to remove the shift mechanism cover just behind the shift lever. You should have a service manual though...and supplement that with directions and pictures available here. Once the cover is off, you can troubleshoot.

If you can't shift into any gear, especially considering you have an '09, I would bet a 12-pack of beer or soda that it is a pin broken off of the shift star. There are other possibilities, but to me that is far and away the most likely. There is more detail on this site...search for 'Shift star' and you'll find a few threads.

When you do find out the problem (whether it's you or your mechanic), please post back here to let us know what it was.

 

Here's one link. https://www.kawasakiforums.com/forum...-change-35512/

 

Well, it was a pin sheared off the shift star. The question now is how do you get the broken pin out of the case without having to take it apart. I have been trying with a magnet. Any suggestions???

 

Keep fishing!!

 

Maybe shake the bike some too. Might be laying up on something.